The Italian, who has not managed at Premier League level before, has courted controversy most recently following his acrimonious departure from League One club Swindon in February.

Despite that Sunderland chairman Ellis Short believes the former West Ham forward is the man to steer the Black Cats away from the relegation zone.

"Paolo is hugely enthused by the challenge that lies ahead of him. He is passionate, driven and raring to get started," he said in a statement on the club's official website.

"The sole focus of everyone for the next seven games will be to ensure we gain enough points to maintain our top-flight status.

"I think that the chances of that are greatly increased with Paolo joining us.

"Our fans have shown tremendous patience and understanding this season. They have continued to back the team in huge numbers, both home and away, and that is something that continues to inspire all of us in our drive to give them the successful club they deserve.

"That remains our primary aim."

Di Canio's only managerial experience came during a tumultuous 18-month stint at Swindon, which was highlighted by helping the club to promotion back to League One last season.

The Italian also grabbed the headlines for occasional outbursts against some of his players, but despite those moments the club had continued to prosper under his leadership this season.

The Robins were challenging for back-to-back promotions before his sudden departure in February.

Di Canio cited "broken promises" from the Swindon board as the reason for his decision adding also that he had "delivered everything and more that was asked of me".

His first game in charge of Sunderland will come against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge next Sunday, followed by a Tyne-Wear derby against fierce rivals Newcastle at St James Park a week later.

Di Canio will be Sunderland's fifth manager in a little more than four years, and the first Short has chosen since Niall Quinn's departure as chairman.

After leaving Swindon he outlined his belief that he was now ready to manage at a higher level, telling BBC Sport: "I believe I am at a stage now where I am a Premier League or Championship manager.

"I have already proven my ability in League Two and League One, where there are many arrogant and average players, and I was able to turn their mentality and help them become better footballers.

"You can imagine if I had the chance to do the same at the top level.

"I proved in League One and Two that I was the best manager, and I now feel ready for the next level."

Di Canio faces the task of galvanising a dispirited squad for a task in which they cannot afford to fail, with the financial implications of the new broadcasting deal meaning relegation is simply not an option.

ood grief. Someone guessed that the form English player at the moment might be in his national side with some other players? And that's espionage? Now if they discovered that Emile Heskey was going to be in the starting line up.... at right back.... THAT would be espionage. Give it a rest Roy.